How To: Get Back on Track

Sometimes, you just need a break. Sometimes life can be a little overwhelming. As a pre-med, I feel so much pressure to excel in everything that I do.It can be difficult to separate yourself from your resume' sometimes. This is why I had such a hard time after dropping my summer class. I felt like I had wasted time, money and energy by dropping the class that was weighing me down and separating me from the people I loved. I felt so guilty for not being productive, that I went from an overly productive maniac to the other side of the spectrum.

I fell into a slump.

I stayed awake until 2 A.M. and woke up at 12 P.M. (Very uncharacteristic for me).

I stayed in my pajamas all day, and I didn't bother with make-up or doing my hair.

I spent almost every day alone, watching TV and eating.

I didn't go outside, despite amazing weather and urging from my parents.

After a few weeks of wallowing in self-pity, I slowly began my ascent to my old self. I started calling people back and making appointments. I went to the public library to get some summer reading. I showered and (gasp!) put some make-up on! I ate dinner with my boyfriend and went to the movies. I began to feel happy again, and I realized that it was because I had freed myself from the pressure to be perfect. It's okay to enjoy laying out by the pool! It's okay to enjoy a barbecue with family! It's also okay to take a gap year before medical school! My whole reasoning for taking summer classes was to "get ahead" but I''m feeling just fine where I'm at.

What I'm saying is "Treat Yo Self!" Don't abuse yourself for a potential career goal. Enjoying the journey is so important! It's okay to relax and enjoy the ride...

#College #undergrad